How HOUSE OF THE DRAGON’s Visit With the Freys Connects to GAME OF THRONES

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As a longtime fan of the epic saga that is “Game of Thrones,” I can’t help but be captivated by the complex web of alliances and betrayals that defined the lives of the noble houses in Westeros. Among them, House Frey stands out as one of the most intriguing and enigmatic.

In the fifth episode of season two for “House of the Dragon,” viewers were transported back to one of “Game of Thrones” most notorious locations – the Twins, residence of House Frey, the Red Wedding, and Arya’s ultimate revenge. Prince Jaceary bravely flew his dragon to this infamous fortress, despite its dark history. Although “House of the Dragon” did not recreate the deadly events that took place there, Jace’s meeting with Lord and Lady Frey still held significant connections to “Game of Thrones.” The Freys have always been known to allow Northern armies to cross their valuable bridge – for a hefty price.

After Meleys and Rhaenys, the dragonrider of Queen Rhaenyra, perished, her position on the Iron Throne became increasingly precarious. In order to have any chance of defeating the Greens and securing her claim to the throne, she urgently required the support of the Riverlands and its vast armies. However, with Daemon absent and potentially pursuing his own interests at Harrenhal, Rhaenyra’s son Jacaerys grew restless on Dragonstone. Desiring action and seeking a new direction in the war, he embarked on an unauthorized journey aboard Vermax without informing his mother. His daring mission led him to the Twins, the seat of House Frey, where he hoped to find both an ally and a viable path forward in this ongoing conflict.

As a passionate fan of the intriguing world of Westeros, I’d describe House Frey’s unique background in this way: I’m always amazed by how relatively new House Frey is compared to other noble families in Westeros. Their history only reaches back four hundred years, a mere blip in comparison to the ancient lineages that stretch for millennia. Yet, despite their comparatively recent emergence on the historical scene, they’ve managed to make a significant mark, primarily due to their remarkable dual castles – the Twins or the Crossing, as some call them. These structures are ingeniously connected by a long, sturdy stone bridge that spans the serene yet formidable Green Fork River, one of the three rivers that make up the mighty Trident.

In George R.R. Martin’s novels, there is a tower situated in the middle of the bridge. Guards are stationed here to prevent unauthorized crossing by firing upon intruders. However, this element is omitted from HBO’s television adaptation.

The Freys amassed wealth and influence by collecting tolls from those seeking to pass through their strategically located river crossing. There was no shortage of takers, either. The Twins significantly cut down travel time between the North and Riverlands, making it an indispensable asset for armies on the move. The ferry offers not only swiftness but also safety and convenience, which are essential advantages for military forces that would otherwise have to take a longer and more perilous route.

Jace aimed to ensure his mother’s safe and quick transfer during his mission, just as it was planned. Cregan Stark pledged the North to Rhaenyra’s side, readying 2,000 experienced, elderly soldiers for immediate battle. Their crossing at the Twins would significantly reduce travel time, allowing them to join the fight promptly. However, they require House Frey’s consent to cross. Without it, their arrival might be too late and could prove insignificant in the outcome of the war. Meanwhile, forces loyal to King Aegon are gathering in the West.

Initially, Lord and Lady Frey were hesitant about allowing Cregan’s soldiers to pass through their lands. They hold no objection to Rhaenyra’s claim to the throne, but their overlord has yet to take a stance on the matter. Lord Grover Tully, referred to as an “oaf,” is too ill to make a decision. In such circumstances, Daemon advised his grandson to consider taking action and supporting Rhaenyra, despite lacking permission from their lord. Acting against their lord’s wishes could be considered treasonous. Allowing Cregan’s men to pass through would imply choosing a side.

As a gamer, I can’t help but feel the weight of House Frey’s fear towards Aemond and Vhagar. Their destructive power is unmatched in this world. And let me tell you, if there was any doubt about it before, the recent events at Rook’s Rest have made it crystal clear to everyone.

Jace eased the Freys‘ worries by promising that not only his dragon, but also Uncle Daemon’s, would safeguard House Frey. This pleased the Freys, but the Prince understood they were still seeking more. When pressed, they expressed their desire for Harrenhal – a considerably larger and more valuable castle in the Riverlands. Once owned by Larys Strong, it had been seized by Daemon.

To claim the notorious and cursed fortress of Harrenhal as my reward at the end of the war, Mother Rhaenyra demands my unwavering submission. In other words, I need to show her my deep respect and loyalty by bending my knees before her.

The Freys’ loyalty is worth more than just a few thousand Northmen crossing a bridge. With their wealth, they have the ability to raise an esteemed army larger than that which House Tully’s lords can muster. (The Riverlands are significant due to their central location, fertility, and abundance of soldiers. Houses Blackwood and Bracken, who have pledged allegiance to Rhaenyra as well, possess the capacity to mobilize even more men than the Tullys.)

The Freys, represented by Lord and Lady, agreed to the Prince’s proposal, and Rhaenyra acknowledged that her son significantly helped their case. Now, the Blacks hold a promising position in the struggle. In contrast to Arya’s previous encounter at the Twins where she assassinated all Frey men disguised as Walder, Jace’s scene at the Twins was rich with references to “Game of Thrones.”

On “Game of Thrones,” Robb Stark formed an unfortunate alliance with Lord Walder Frey due to his urgency to move his Northern troops swiftly against the Lannisters. With his father Ned detained as a traitor in King’s Landing and Sansa held captive as a hostage, Robb required secure passage for his soldiers at the Twins to protect his family and progress against the Lannister army. (The whereabouts of Arya were unknown at the time.)

Catelyn, mother of Robb, had a personal acquaintance with Lord Walder. Acting as a representative for her son, she visited Walder and came back with a proposal. This proposition ensured the safety of their crossing and secured Frey allegiance in return. The agreement stipulated that Robb would marry one of Walder’s daughters following the conclusion of the war.

I, Robb Stark, accepted the deal and the Northmen crossed at the Twins. However, I broke my word to notoriously untrustworthy Lord Frey. I fell for a healer from Essos named Talisa and wed her against Catelyn’s warnings. Unfortunately, House Frey withdrew their allegiance from my cause due to this hasty decision. Desperate, I tried to win them back, but ultimately, the Red Wedding unfolded.

Lord Walder sought something more substantial than what Robb proposed. In the new arrangement, Walder’s nephew and Riverrun’s newly appointed lord, Edmure Tully (Catelyn’s brother), would marry one of Walder’s daughters instead. This matrimonial union between the two Riverland families would strengthen their bond.

Despite the marriage taking place, Lord Walder sought retribution. In cahoots with Tywin Lannister and Roose Bolton, he orchestrated the infamous Red Wedding. The Freys carried out Walder’s plan, brutally slaying Robb, Catelyn, Talisa, and every Northman whom Walder had pledged to shield at the Twins.

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As a devoted follower of the intriguing world of Westeros, I can’t help but share my perspective on the tragic events that transpired between Houses Stark and Frey. Lord Walder, long a victim of disdain from older, esteemed families, harbored an unquenchable desire to see one of his offspring wed a monarch. The broken oaths and tarnished reputation of House Stark left him feeling disrespected, and in response, he orchestrated a shocking act of vengeance.

The behaviors of Lord Walder did not align with the values of House Frey as a whole, yet they reflected certain enduring traits of the Freys. Historically, the Twins held significant strategic importance during wartime for the Northmen seeking passage south. Furthermore, even two centuries prior to the Red Wedding, the Freys displayed similar ambitions when faced with opportunities for expansion. House Frey’s desire for increased power, wealth, and prestige remained a consistent theme throughout their history.

Based on my own experiences and observations, I strongly believe that underestimating newcomers or emerging families can be a costly mistake. Having witnessed the rapid rise of the upstart family who cleverly constructed a valuable bridge at a strategic location, I’ve come to appreciate the significance of their accomplishments. For some, like Jace, it meant expanding their territories with grander castles. For others, such as Robb, it represented opportunities for alliances through marriage. But for everyone involved, it served as a clear reminder that ambition, intelligence, and strategic planning can lead to great rewards. Never underestimate the potential of the underdogs!

As a devoted follower of all things Game of Thrones and a staff writer at TopMob, I can’t help but be intrigued by the enigmatic figure that is Cregan Stark. Mikey Walsh, or @burgermike as he goes by on Twitter and Bluesky, is always finding reasons to bring up this legendary character in his writings. His enthusiasm for the Targaryen kings and their complex histories is contagious, and I’ve learned a great deal from his insights.

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2024-07-15 22:03